Utica University Launches Women’s Flag Football Team for 2026-27 Season

Utica University just announced they’re adding a women’s flag football team. That makes them only the second local college to offer this fast-growing sport.

The news dropped at a press conference on April 29, 2026. University leaders say they’re committed to giving female student-athletes more ways to get involved.

This move puts Utica right alongside Empire 8 rival Hartwick College, which already has a team. The Pioneers will start with a non-varsity schedule for the 2026-27 season.

After that, they’re aiming to go full varsity the following year.

The Growing Popularity of Women’s Flag Football

Women’s flag football is really picking up steam nationwide, and Utica wants in. There are already 175 high school teams just in New York State.

The sport’s expanding quickly, opening doors for more female athletes. Athletic Director Kristin St. Hilaire says the university is eager to help the sport grow and to create more opportunities for women.

A Strategic Move for Utica University

Adding this team just makes sense. More women are getting involved in sports, and Utica wants to stay ahead of the curve.

President Stephanie Nesbitt shared her excitement, pointing out that flag football is catching on both nationally and locally. It’s not just a trend—it’s something the community seems to want.

Meet the Inaugural Head Coach: Damian Boehlert

Utica tapped Damian Boehlert as the first head coach for the women’s flag football team. He’s got years of experience coaching amateur flag football.

Boehlert’s passion and background should help him lead the Pioneers through their first season and whatever comes next.

Building a Competitive Team

Boehlert’s main goal? Build a team that can really compete in the Empire 8. People are going to be watching this team closely, especially since Hartwick College has already set a bar.

The Hawks wrapped up their first season with a 4-7 record and even made it to the Empire 8 semifinals. Utica’s hoping to make a name for itself too.

Expanding Opportunities for Female Athletes

Bringing women’s flag football to Utica is a big deal for female athletes. It’s a step toward giving women more chances to play and compete at a high level.

There’s a real push for gender equality in sports, and this move fits right in with that mission.

Community Impact and Support

The local community seems to be on board with Utica’s new team. High school athletes like Alexis DeGroat—who’s headed to Roberts Wesleyan College for flag football—are inspiring the next generation.

Local high school teams like Oneida and Westmoreland are also getting in on the action. Community support like this could make all the difference for the team and the sport’s growth in the area.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Women’s Flag Football at Utica University

The Pioneers will kick things off with a non-varsity schedule in 2026-27. It’s a chance to lay the groundwork and get some experience.

They’ll move up to a varsity schedule the year after, aiming to compete hard in the Empire 8. No official schedule yet, but there’s definitely buzz as the team gets ready to take the field.

Challenges and Opportunities

Starting a new sports program isn’t easy. Recruiting, training, and actually competing all come with their own headaches.